Reestablishment of the condyle-fossa and maxillomandibular relationships using a flat occlusal plane splint and implant-supported denture: case report with a 2-year follow-up

When the shape, structure, and/or function of one of the parts of the components of the stomatognathic system change, structural and physiological changes also occur to absorb or compensate the consequent loads. Hence, an insightful rehabilitation of this type of patient involves essential procedures, such as: correct orientation of the occlusal plane, determination of the vertical dimension of occlusion, and a stable and healthy maxillomandibular relationship, since the nonobservance of these aspects may result in prosthodontic rehabilitation failure. The objective of the present case study is to report the preoperative planning and prosthodontic rehabilitation of an edentulous patient with severe maxillary atrophy and signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders. The patient underwent flat occlusal plane splint therapy to reestablish the condyle-fossa and maxillomandibular relationships and muscle activity, followed by prosthodontic rehabilitation with implant-supported complete dentures. The maxillomandibular relationship was determined by the intraoral tracing technique, with a 24-month follow-up.